FMS PARENT HANDBOOK - Foothills Montessori School
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FMS PARENT HANDBOOK
1401 Amador Lane * Henderson, NV 89012
702.407.0790
www.foothillsmontessori.com
We welcome your child and your family to our Montessori community. We feel privileged to
be a part of your lives. This handbook will help foster the best possible communication
between the school and the home.
This handbook provides important information on school policies and programs. Please read
it carefully, keep it handy for reference, and contact us if you have any further questions or
concerns.
1Table of Contents
Introduction – Page 3
History…Description…Commitment
Educational Philosophy – Page 3
Mission Statement…Essential Elements of a Quality Montessori Program…Maria Montessori
Curriculum – Page 4
Primary Program…Spanish Immersion…Kindergarten…Elementary & Middle School Program…
Computers & Tablets
Getting Ready for School – Page 5
First Day…Phasing In…Social Situations…Talking with Your Child About School
Daily Procedures – Page 6
School Hours…Arrival and Departure…Keyless Entry System…Other Important Tips…Extended Care…
Procedure for Releasing Children…Attendance/Absenteeism…Parking Lot Procedures
Clothing – Page 8
Primary…Elementary & Middle School
Food & Water – Page 9
Health & Safety – Page 10
Health Immunizations…Health Education…Illnesses or Emergencies…Medication…Naps…Toilet
Mastery…Emergency Plan…CPR Training…Pest Control/Air Fresheners…No Smoking, No Alcohol, No Pets
Policy…Reporting of Child Abuse or Neglect
Sharing – Page 12
Personal Property
Birthdays – Page 12
Parent/School Communication – Page 13
Parent – Teacher Conferences…Website/Blog/Facebook…Parent Nights…Library…Parent Involvement…
Parent Volunteers…Visitors…Observation…Field Trips…School Directory…Who to Ask? Social Networking
General Administrative – Page 15
Admission…Tuition…Court Costs/Costs of Collection…Admissions Process…Student Files…
Re-enrollment Procedures…Termination of Contract…Special Needs…Non-English-Speaking Children…
Promotion from One Grade Level to the Next…Transcripts
Code of Conduct – Page 18
Ground Rules…Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying…Weapons…Exceptional Misconduct…Action Plan for
Misconduct…Mandatory Withdrawal for Behavioral Concerns…Mandatory Withdrawal for Lack Of Academic
Progress or Failure to Meet Program Standards
2INTRODUCTION
History
Foothills Montessori school was founded in the home of Leanne Jorgensen. It has grown from 16 students to a school of
over 300 students ranging in ages from 3-14 years old.
Description
We currently have 10 classrooms servicing preschool through eighth grade. We offer a wide variety of enrichment
courses including a beautiful and rich outdoor environment, as well as a multi-purpose room and office area.
Commitment
Foothills Montessori School was founded to be a world-class private school using the Montessori method. We constantly
strive toward this goal guided by our mission and our four pillars. Our program is a cohesive and comprehensive
program, and our environment is set up to foster respect for the individual child and a sense of community that brings out
the best in individuals.
EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY
Mission Statement
The purpose of Foothills Montessori School is to provide an educational environment which serves the whole child –
intellectually, physically, emotionally, and spiritually, cultivates a life-long love of learning and inspires a passion for
excellence, makes it possible for children to learn to their highest potential, and nurtures the curiosity, creativity, and
imagination born within us all.
Our School Rests on Four Pillars:
1. Excellence – the desire and commitment of doing ones best in every possible area of life.
2. Universal Values – habits and ways of thinking and acting which exhibit deeply held values including honesty,
integrity, responsibility, compassion, peacefulness, respect for self and others, and a love of community.
3. Global Perspective – understanding, extensive knowledge, and respect for our world and all those in it.
4. Service – a lifelong commitment to giving something back through service to others.
Essential Elements of a Quality Montessori Program
Montessori schools are based on the principles of respect and independence.
Montessori programs teach children to think and discover for themselves.
Children and teachers work in a carefully prepared environment.
Curriculum is organized into a spiral of integrated studies.
Montessori materials are a road from the concrete to the abstract.
Montessori schools give children the sense of belonging to a family and help them live with other people.
Multi-age classrooms foster a sense of collaboration and mentoring among students. Older students are
encouraged to be role models for younger ones.
Montessori teachers incorporate a second language, music, movement, and art into the curriculum.
Montessori teachers are college graduates with Montessori Certification.
Montessori teachers have the ability to work with children of different learning styles.
Montessori teachers strive to awaken the child’s spirit and imagination and encourage a normal desire for
independence.
Montessori teachers help the child learn how to observe, question, and explore ideas independently.
Montessori teachers help develop the kindness, courtesy, and respect that will help the child become a member
of society.
Montessori teachers rarely present a lesson to more than a handful of children at one time and limit their lessons
to brief, efficient presentations.
Montessori parents value an educational system that reaches the whole child.
Montessori parents participate in the education of their child and support the school community.
Montessori parents enhance the school philosophy of respect for the child by using it in their home.
3Maria Montessori
Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952) was the first female medical doctor in Italy. Dr. Montessori was responsible for treating
and caring for a group of low-income children in Rome. It was there that she founded the first “Casa de Bambini.” Through
her deep respect for children and her outstanding skill of observation, she created a child-centered method of education.
Today, Montessori schools are highly regarded throughout the world.
CURRICULUM
We offer children a carefully prepared environment, rich in learning materials and experiences. Students are grouped in
mixed-age classes (3-6 yrs), (6-9 yrs), (9-12 yrs), and (12-14 yrs) that allow them to interact with each other on a variety
of levels. The teacher is a facilitator in the learning process. Through careful observation and guidance, children are
directed toward meaningful activity, which helps them discover and develop their own interests and abilities.
In all grade levels, children follow an enhanced Montessori Curriculum, which includes:
Language Botany Arts World Cultures/History
Mathematics Zoology Performing Arts/Music Environmental Education
Geometry Science Foreign Language Peace Education
Geography Practical Life Computer Literacy Physical Education
Primary Program
The Primary Program consists of five main areas:
1. The Practical Life area helps children develop order, concentration, coordination, and independence in the care of
self and the environment.
2. The Sensorial area offers children a chance to develop their sensory acuteness with materials relating to color,
size, shape, sound, smell and touch.
3. Language Arts activities include pre-reading activities, vocabulary development and introduction to reading and
writing.
4. The Math area provides concrete and manipulative materials through which the children discover the meaning of
quantity, gain an overview of the number system and learn mathematical operations.
5. In Geography, History, Botany, and Zoology the children explore the physical, cultural, and natural worlds.
Also included are art, music, movement, performing arts, and foreign language. Communication, grace, courtesy,
problem solving, and other social skills are integrated throughout the curriculum.
Spanish Immersion
We currently offer a 50/50 dual language Spanish Immersion Program for the primary age group (3-6 years) and lower
elementary age group (6-9 years). This program allows children to receive 50% of their lessons in Spanish and 50% of
their lessons in English throughout the day.
Kindergarten
This class is an extension of the Primary Program for 5-6-year-old children (5 years old by September 30th) who show
academic and social readiness. These students have the opportunity to interact in the mixed-age group classroom during
the morning work cycle. In the afternoon, Kindergarten students work with their peers and have the opportunity to pursue
academic and cultural subjects in greater depth.
Elementary & Middle School Program (Ages 6-14)
Through personalized instruction and planning, students are encouraged to pursue studies independently and take
responsibility for their learning. They are encouraged to make choices and work cooperatively. Curriculum follows state
guidelines and includes Math, Language, Science, Geography, and History. The natural and cultural worlds are studied in
depth. These students are refining their ability to obtain knowledge through research. The students develop an
understanding of the relationship between all subjects. The students are also developing their capacities to move from
concrete to abstract.
4As part of the Montessori experience, students develop important interpersonal skills, become responsible members of a
community and establish a code of conduct. Classroom learning is enriched by field trips, guest speakers, theatrical
productions, community service, and other special events.
Computers & Tablets
FMS provides technology resources and internet access to students and has taken precautions to restrict access to
objectionable material. Our policies are intended to promote the most effective, safe, productive, and instructionally
sound uses of networked information and communication tools. However, we cannot guarantee that the network will be
without error. We expect students to exercise appropriate personal responsibility in their use of these resources including
the following:
Students may not email, chat, instant message, text, play games, access music/videos, hack/prank, or visit social
network sites i.e. My Space, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, Pinterest, etc.
Students may not download software or change network settings and passwords.
Students may not password protect files. Teachers have access to student data at all times.
Students may only use computers and printers as related to the curriculum as assigned by FMS teachers and not
for personal use.
FMS has the right to look at any data, email, logs, or files that exist on USB flash drives and hard drives without
prior notice to users.
Students may not copy, save, plagiarize, or redistribute copyrighted material.
Students may not eat or drink while using technology equipment.
Students agree to notify a teacher immediately if they mistakenly access inappropriate information.
Parents will be held financially responsible for any intentional damage to FMS laptops, computers, network, etc.
including vandalism, downloading viruses/worms, etc.
Upper Elementary and Middle School students (4th-8th grade) may bring a personal laptop, Chromebook, or tablet to
school for their use with a signed release from a parent. They are not to be shared with other students and must have
appropriate firewall, parental controls, and active antivirus software. Personal device use on campus falls under the
aforementioned polices and user guidelines. FMS is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal property and is
the sole responsibility of the student.
GETTING READY FOR SCHOOL
First Day
The first day of school is an important experience in the child’s life. His or her adjustment to this new environment
depends in a large part on the attitudes of the parents, and their awareness of the program and its goals. Here are a few
ways to ease the transition.
It is best to avoid excessive discussion about starting school. The child should feel it would be a normal and natural part of
his or her growth and an extension of home life. If parents are calm and positive in their approach, the child will sense this,
which will help ease the transition into this new experience.
Upon arrival, bring your child into the classroom entry where you will be greeted by one of the teachers. It is best to leave
promptly after saying your good-byes. Parents should have a matter-of-fact attitude, which gives the child greater security.
It is best to show confidence in the staff. Most children have separation problems on the first days, and sometimes weeks
of school. Try not to be too anxious about this, realizing that children need time to bond with the other children, the
teachers, and the environment. The teacher will give you an accounting during the first weeks of your child’s day.
Phasing In
New primary students (ages 3-4) are normally “phased in” to the classroom. This eases the transition to the new
environment. Returning students will start school first and re-familiarize themselves with the classroom. New students will
start the second week of school, a few each day per classroom. This allows the teachers to give more individual attention
to each child on their first day and gives them a classroom full of role models. New students entering kindergarten through
8th grade all start on the first day of school with our returning students according to the academic calendar.
5Social Situations
The developing and refining of social skills is part school experience and an important part of the child’s work. The
teachers are there to assist this process. During the year, children may become involved in friendships that form triangles,
or have difficulty with a particular child. If you feel a situation of this type may be causing problems, please contact us so
we can attempt to help the child through the transition period of making friends and practicing conflict resolution
strategies.
When a student leaves midyear, it is of real benefit to the child and his/her classmates to make arrangements to say
goodbye. All children are made to feel they are part of our “family” at school. When a child leaves, the other children
frequently wonder what happened to their classmate.
Often the atmosphere of a school is influenced by wonderfully positive people. Unfortunately, the opposite can also be
true. Please remember that the children are influenced by our attitudes. If you have a problem or concern, please go to
the source and discuss it with them directly in order to resolve it. Please use discretion and refrain from negative
discussions and criticism in front of parents and children. Above all, we ask that you never speak negatively of your child
or any other child within his/her earshot. If you are concerned about your child’s development or behavior, please talk with
the child’s teacher without the child present. If you need to speak to the child about something of this nature, it is best to
do so out of earshot of others. As you know, children are sensitive beings, as we all are, and should be treated with
ultimate respect and dignity, even when being taught better ways of behaving.
Talking With Your Child About School
Parents of primary and elementary age children are frequently frustrated when they receive no response to the question
“what did you do today?” Children do many activities throughout the day and it is sometimes difficult to articulate them.
Also, Montessori typically emphasizes the process over the product, especially in the primary program. One strategy may
be to ask something specific like “did you cut carrots today, or did you work with the bead chains?” Another suggestion is
to ask about closing circle or end of day activities and work backward. In addition, you might find that after an hour or
more at home the child may spontaneously share something from the day. This is especially true if he/she does not
perceive talking about school as opening up the opportunity for criticism or pressure. We also encourage parents to
schedule a classroom observation, from which you will come away with greater insight of your child’s day.
DAILY PROCEDURES
School Hours
Program Begin End
Preschool Half Day AM 8:30 AM 11:15 AM
Preschool Half Day PM 12:15 PM 3:00 PM
Preschool Full Day & Kindergarten 8:30 AM 3:00 PM
Elementary Full Day (1st – 3rd) 8:15 AM 3:15 PM
Elementary Full Day (4th – 6th) 8:15 AM 3:30 PM
Middle School (7th – 8th) 8:15 AM 3:30 PM
Extended Day 7:00 AM 6:00 PM
Lunch Bunch 11:15 AM 12:15 PM
Arrival and Departure
Saying “goodbye” tips for young children:
Initially it can be difficult for parents of young children to separate at the beginning of the school year. We have found that
a short and positive good-bye is easiest for the child. We do not recommend parents entering the classroom. Prolonged
or inconsistent goodbyes often make the separation more difficult. The school attempts to call all parents of upset
children when the child has settled down. You may also feel free to call the school for reassurance that your child has
settled in and is adjusting well.
Early Care:
The time before school should be a period of calmness. We suggest allowing plenty of time so as not to rush your child.
Parents and children arriving between 7:00 am and 8:15 am should only be those who are using the extended care
6service. If you are using this service please park your car, walk your child to the designated classroom and sign them in.
You will be greeted by a staff member.
Primary:
Please park in the designated parking area. Walk your child in, holding his/her hand through the parking lot. Inside the
classroom door the teacher will greet your child and have you sign him/her in. This is the best time for you to say your
good-byes. If each day is consistent the child feels more comfortable. It is also best to discuss how your departure will be
handled beforehand so your child knows what to expect. We have found that when children are walked in and out by their
parents, the transitions are gentler, more child-friendly, and begin the day in a more positive manner. Students with
siblings in the Elementary program may arrive at 8:15. We thank you for taking the time to escort your child to his/her
classroom.
In cases of extenuating circumstances, we will provide curbside drop-off and pick-up. An application for this service is
provided in the registration packet and is subject to approval by the Head of School.
Elementary & Middle School:
Please either walk your child to class in the morning or drop them off curbside and watch him/her pass through the gate.
Your child should then be able to safely walk to his or her classroom where the teachers will be waiting.
We will provide curbside pick-up for elementary students as of the first day of school on the east side of the facility
(Stephanie Street). Curbside pick-up will be between 3:15-3:30 pm only for 1st through 3rd grade and 3:30-3:45 pm only
for 4th through 8th grade. If your child is tardy (after 8:15 am) you must come into the office and get a tardy slip to take to
your child’s teacher.
Keyless Entry System (KES)
A keyless entry system is located at the front office door. Each parent is assigned a code in the system which is the last 5
digits of their social security number provided on your child’s emergency form. All parents and students should enter the
campus through the front office door, as the front gates will remain locked and secure. The east gate will be open during
curbside drop-off and pick-up times only with staff present to monitor appropriately. Parents may exit through the front
double gates or the office; however, please make sure the gate is closed properly as you exit to ensure the safety of our
campus. Please do not allow others to enter through the gate as you exit.
KES instructions for use:
Press “start” – red light will appear to indicate the system is “ready”
Enter the last 5 digits of your social security number (provided on the student’s emergency form)
Press “open” – green light will appear as “accept” if code is entered properly
Push door open and enter
Other Important Tips
1. Since the teachers are greeting the children and helping them to begin their day, it is not an appropriate time to
converse extensively with your child’s teacher.
2. If you wish to speak with a teacher, leave a message at the office, record your request in the communication
notebook kept with the sign-in sheet (primary only), or send a note asking for an appointment. Please refrain from
the practice of conversing for more than a few moments with the staff members while they are in contact with the
children. Lengthy conversations distract the staff members who need to be giving 100% of their attention to the
children. The staff members will be happy to respond to email communication, as well.
3. When picking up your child, please do not encourage him/her to continue to play on the playground while you
wait. This is confusing to the staff with regard to safety and supervision (i.e. “Who is watching the child?”).
Children should be picked up and/or signed out from their classrooms or curbside promptly unless you are
utilizing extended care services.
4. Please always watch your child(ren) carefully when on campus and in the parking lot.
Extended Care
Children attending the extended day program are escorted to a designated room at the end of the day and signed into the
program by their teacher. Picking your child up from extended care requires walking into the building and signing your
child out on the extended day sign in/out sheet. If your child does not normally utilize these services, a parent must notif y
the school in advance that your child will be attending aftercare.
7Procedure for Releasing Children
Frequently, relatives or friends will come to pick up children. We will not release a child to anyone without permission from
the parent. A note to this effect must be given to the office with a parent’s signature, and identification must be shown.
Only in an emergency situation can we take a notification of a change by telephone. Otherwise, the child will be released
to a parent and/or authorized individuals listed on the emergency release form provided at the beginning of the year.
Please note even if the person is listed on the form, he/she will have to show identification the first time he/she picks up
the child. It is also helpful if the usual person who picks up the child would inform the teacher if there will be a change from
the ordinary, even if the individual is listed on the emergency release. This helps the pickup process go more quickly and
smoothly. If the child is in a carpool, all members must be listed on the emergency release form.
Attendance
All FMS students, even our youngest, are expected to attend school on a daily basis, arriving before the start of the school
day. Consistent attendance and prompt arrival are essential. Late arrival is disruptive and inconsiderate to the rest of the
class, and nothing can be more disruptive to a child’s education than irregular attendance. Consistency and routine are
important to every child’s development, including preschool students. We depend on our families’ full support in this area.
Students and parents who are often arriving late or frequently absent from school may be required to withdraw from FMS.
Absences
It is important for the school to know if your child is ill, if the illness is communicable, if your child is taking a day off, or if
you are taking a vacation. Frequent absences, tardiness and/or early departure from the classroom impede children’s
academic progress and cause children to miss important experiences. Please call absences in to the office (702-407-
0790) by 9:00am.
All students should bring a note upon returning to the school explaining the reason for the absence. If parents know of an
absence in advance, such as a vacation or scheduled medical procedure, parents should pre-arrange the absence by
sending a written note to the teacher, recording the information in the communication notebook kept with the sign-in
sheets (primary only), or email the head teacher in your child’s classroom.
Approved absences are those that have followed the above procedure. Kindergarten, elementary and middle school
students should not have more than 20 absences per academic school year (10 per semester). Unless otherwise
approved by the Head of School, students who exceed these guidelines, including excessive tardiness and early
departures, may be withdrawn from FMS, lose preferred enrollment status, and/or not advance to the next level. This
policy allows us to do all we can to ensure that each child grows and learns to his/her potential. Absences, tardiness,
and early departures will be noted on all report cards.
Elementary and middle school students begin instruction promptly at 8:15am. Therefore, we recommend students to
arrive no later than 8:10am to allow ample time for them to put away their personal items and to get ready for their
lessons. Primary students should arrive in class no later than 8:30am. Valuable experience is lost for everyone if your
child is late for class. Please be on time.
Parking Lot Procedures
Please enter at the Amador Lane entrance if you are parking at the front of the facility. Enter at the Stephanie Street
entrance to park on the east side of the campus or if you are assigned to curbside service at the side gate entrance. All
vehicles should exit onto Amador Lane. When dropping off your child, please park if you are walking him/her to class and
do not stop at the curb or park in the thruway. The curb is for quick pick-up and drop-off only, and not for parking of any
kind. Unattended vehicles are subject to ticketing by the City of Henderson. Please drive slowly and cautiously through
the parking lot. Please hold your child’s hand in the parking lot. In addition, please use the designated crosswalks in the
parking lot and at the corner of Stephanie and Amador when crossing traffic flow areas.
CLOTHING
Primary
Clothing for school should be comfortable and help create a feeling of independence in your child. All clothing should be
easy for the child to remove. We encourage parents to place the responsibility of choosing clothes on the child. We
8suggest that you have the child make choices about clothing and outerwear the night before. This will make your
mornings go much more smoothly.
Footwear is especially important. It is difficult and unsafe for children to run, climb, or walk in flip-flops, clogs, backless
shoes, crocs, and shoes with heels. Therefore, we ask that you refrain from sending your children in these types of shoes.
Additionally, all children who would like to work in the outdoor environment and/or utilize the exploratorium must wear
closed toe shoes.
Primary children will need a plastic zip-lock bag containing a change of clothing (2 pair of underwear, socks, shirt, and
pants). All clothing must be well labeled with the student’s name. Also, label the bag with a permanent marker with your
child’s name.
We ask parents to give careful consideration to the clothing being worn. Avoid clothing that depicts current popular
cartoon and movie characters especially those that could encourage aggressive play/behavior, and refrain from flip sequin
shirts. This type of clothing is often a distraction to other children at school. Our goal, to provide an environment that
encourages respect for each other, cooperation and concentration, is best served without these types of influences.
Elementary & Middle School
Students need to dress in a way that is conducive to learning and P.E. activities. FMS reserves the right to determine if
any hair or clothing style is distracting or inappropriate. The following guidelines help keep the focus on learning rather
than what someone is wearing:
No clothing that depicts negative, distracting, or inappropriate messages.
No flip-flops or high-heel shoes. Tennis or athletic shoes must be worn on physical education days in order to
participate in P.E.
No sleeveless shirts, spaghetti straps, flip sequin shirts, see-through, or low-cut shirts. Tank top straps should be
3 finger width.
No visible body piercing other than earrings.
No distracting hair-dye, styles, nails, or makeup (i.e. purple, mohawks). Hair and makeup must be a natural color,
and nails should be kept at a length conducive to writing/typing.
No bare midriffs.
No cut-offs or jeans with holes or rips, or sheer yoga pants.
No shorts with less than a 5” inseam or skirts shorter than 3” above the knee.
No accessories (watches, belts, etc.) that can be construed as a game, toy, or otherwise inappropriate object.
Watches should not be worn to school that have phone or internet access.
A parent or responsible party will be contacted to bring a change of clothes, or the student will be provided a change of
clothing kept on campus, should a child come to school in any of the above. Repeated dress code violations may result in
withdrawal from the program.
FOOD & WATER
Foothills Montessori School is committed to teaching the whole child, which requires us to take nutrition very seriously.
The snack that is provided at the school will be nutritious and wholesome. If your child has a food allergy or food
sensitivity, please inform the child’s teacher in writing prior to the first day of school. Also, indicate all allergies on the
Emergency Form provided in the registration packet. Students are also encouraged to bring a refillable water bottle,
especially during warmer weather. Please make sure the bottle is labeled with the child’s name in accordance with
licensing requirements.
Elementary and middle school students may bring an individual daily snack that should be of a nutritious value and does
not interfere with the student’s ability to continue with their work.
We strongly encourage nutritional lunches. Things to avoid are artificial flavoring, excessive amounts of salt and fat,
preservatives (BHA, BHT), and excessive amounts of refined sugar. Please do not send Lunchables and snack items
that list sugar as one of the first few ingredients. No candy or soda will be allowed. Lunches should be packed with
an ice pack. Please do not send items in glass containers for the safety of the children. It is best to pack items in reusable
plastic containers.
9Having your child help you prepare their lunch the night before will help him/her have positive feelings for the food packed.
Discuss the nutritional value of each item and perhaps where it comes from or how it is made. Finger foods are especially
helpful for younger children, such as fruit cut into bite size pieces, or carrots or green pepper strips. We suggest that
parents try to keep the experience positive and allow for limited choices.
Some other ideas include: yogurt, salad, fruit, sandwiches, vegetables, and leftovers.
All uneaten foods, which can be contained, will be sent home. You will want to monitor your children’s lunch boxes to see
what they like and dislike.
As a part of our curriculum of grace and courtesy, we ask that each child in the school bring a cloth napkin with his/her
lunch. We actively teach manners and appreciate your support in this area.
HEALTH & SAFETY
Health Immunizations
Foothills Montessori School is required to follow Nevada State Law regarding immunizations of all students.
Immunizations must be completed prior to attending any public or private school or preschool. Health
records/immunization copies must be on file with the school prior to attending class. State law does provide exemptions
for religious or medical reasons. Please contact the office for further information regarding exemption.
Health Education
The State Department regulations specify that students, kindergarten through 8th grade, may be excused from physical
education for the following reasons:
a. Non-participation for physical reasons as certified by a physician’s statement.
b. Non-participation for religious reasons as certified by a written statement.
Illnesses and Emergencies
If an illness or emergency arises, we will attempt to contact a responsible party. We will follow these procedures:
a. Your child will be taken to an area away from the other children.
b. A parent or responsible party will be contacted to pick up the child within 45 minutes.
c. We require three telephone numbers to call in case your child gets sick or there is an emergency. Usually the
numbers are for their parents and a relative or a friend. Some parents have occupations where it is difficult to be
contacted and/or leave on short notice. If you have such a job, please provide the names of individuals who have
the flexibility to pick up your child.
d. If a serious illness or emergency occurs and we are unable to reach a responsible party, we will contact your
personal physician, or if necessary, call an ambulance or other emergency service. It is absolutely imperative that
you keep the school up to date on any changes in telephone numbers, emergency contacts, and other pertinent
information.
If your child has any of the following indications, he/she is not healthy enough to attend school.
Fever of 100 degrees or higher
Deep coughing
Yellow or green nasal or eye discharge
Upset stomach
Vomiting or diarrhea
Unidentified rash
If your child has one or more of these symptoms, please keep him/her home. If a child exhibits any of these symptoms
at school, a parent will be notified to make arrangements to pick up the child from school. The child may return to school
after he/she is symptom free for a minimum of 24 hours. We are aware that this can be a real burden. However,
keeping the child home when they are sick not only makes the child more comfortable, but also prevents exposure to the
rest of the students and staff.
10Given the nature of children, accidents will happen. Hopefully, they will always be minor bumps and bruises. In the event
of an accidental injury, the staff member present will care for the child and notify other staff members and the
administration. In the event of a serious accident, the family of the child is notified and arrangements are made for the
child to be taken from the school. In an extreme emergency, FMS will call 911. For all accidents of more than a very minor
nature, an injury report will be completed and signed by the attending staff member and the parent. The report will be kept
in the child’s file and parents will be given a copy.
Participation in FMS activities and use of any recreational equipment/facilities involves a risk of accidental injury despite
all safety precautions. Parents and/or guardians of the student enrolled at FMS assume all risks and hazards incidental to
the activities, and release from responsibility and agree to indemnify and hold harmless FMS, its officers, Directors,
independent contractors, and all employees for any illness or injury to the child or family members occurring during
his/her/our participation in any activities, trips, or use of any facilities conducted by FMS.
Medication
Schools are required to follow stringent procedures concerning medications to be administered at school. They are as
follows:
1. All non-prescription medication must be accompanied by a note from the doctor stating the times, dosages, and
length of treatment. This includes over the counter medication.
2. Prescription medication must remain in the container bearing the original label that shows the prescription
number, name of medication, date filled, physician’s name, child’s name, expiration date, and directions for
dosage. Medication may only be administered one time per day (lunchtime) per Child Care Licensing.
3. A release from a parent stating that Foothills Montessori School has your permission to administer medication
(form available in the office).
4. All medications should be handed from a parent to an office staff member and enclosed in an appropriate
container. Do not give medications to your child’s teacher.
5. Whenever possible, we prefer that the parent administer nebulizer treatments before school or make
arrangements to come to the school and administer the treatments.
6. Parents must check and confirm the medical dosage sheet in the office and discuss any problems with the staff
member in charge.
Naps
Full-time preschool children, other than kindergarteners, are offered the opportunity to nap. All nap and rest periods are
provided in a quiet area separate from the children engaged in activities, which would disrupt the peaceful environment.
Children who are nappers rest on mats and must remain on the mat until they have completed a nap or have rested
quietly for twenty minutes.
Toilet Mastery
Our licensing requirements preclude us from having any children in our care that have not acquired toilet mastery.
Included in this mastery is the ability to care for themselves after using the toilet. Please dress children so they are
confident they can succeed (avoid pants/shorts with difficult buttons or hooks to manipulate).
Emergency Plan
Foothills Montessori School has comprehensive plans in place to respond to emergencies including active threat, fire, and
natural disaster. Fire drills are conducted and recorded monthly. A drill for natural disasters and active threat are
conducted and recorded quarterly. These drills are typically facilitated by the local fire department with the support of the
FMS staff.
In the event of an actual emergency, an all school text message will be sent to parents to notify them of the emergency
and other important information. It is imperative that parents provide current cell phone numbers and the name of the cell
provider on the emergency form in order for FMS to communicate with parents via text. Please be aware that text
messaging will only be used in the event of an actual emergency, and not to be used to relay information of less
importance. An emergency ticker will also appear on the home page of our website which will only appear in the event of
a true emergency. Certain emergencies may require the staff and children to be evacuated from campus. Procedures
have been established through Clark County School District to provide transportation and relocation to a local public
school. The site for reunification, along with instructions, will also be posted to the emergency ticker on the website.
11CPR Training
All staff members of Foothills Montessori School have received training and certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation
(CPR) and First Aid.
Pest Control/Air Fresheners
FMS employs a pest control company to service and treat our campus on a bi-monthly basis. Service is performed when
students are not present on campus and appropriate precautions are taken regarding the use of pesticides.
Air fresheners and diffusers are also used at times in the restrooms and classrooms.
No Smoking, No Alcohol, No Pets
Smoking and the use of alcohol is strictly prohibited at all times in the classrooms, on the campus/parking lot, and on field
trips (local or long distance) of Foothills Montessori School. In addition, we have a strict no pet policy on school grounds
or in any building located on the FMS campus in compliance with SNHD regulations.
Reporting of Child Abuse or Neglect
State law requires that any staff member who has reasonable cause to know or suspect that a child has been subjected to
abuse or neglect, or who has observed a child being subjected to circumstances or conditions which could reasonably
result in abuse or neglect, shall immediately report to the Department of Human Services, or the local law enforcement
agency.
SHARING
Occasionally, children may bring treasures that are important to them to share with the class. These may include objects
from nature, such as shells or rocks, something they have made, or a cultural item. Please keep toys at home. If your
child brings a toy to school, please tell him/her that toys must stay at home or in the car. Toys at school are a disruption in
many ways. If you have questions about the appropriateness of an item, please check with your child’s teacher before
sending the item to school with your child in order to avoid disappointment on the part of the child. Sharing policies such
as days or times will be explained by individual teachers during the first month of school.
Personal Property
Foothills Montessori assumes no responsibility for any items brought from home. We ask that you leave fragile materials
at home so that they will be better protected. There is a Lost and Found box maintained in the front office. This will be
placed at the gate periodically. Please check it for any items you may be missing. All items in the Lost and Found box
not picked up will be sent to a charitable organization, typically once a month.
Please do not allow students to bring electronic devices to school which include cell phones, iPods, iTouches, hand-held
computer games, etc. These items are distracting to the work environment and will be taken from the student if used
during class and/or school hours. Items will be held by the teacher for the parent to pick-up if confiscated by a staff
member and will not be returned directly to the student. However, students may keep cell phones in their backpacks for
after school use but must remain off during school hours and not be in use. FMS is not liable in anyway and assumes no
responsibility for lost electronic devices and personal property of the student.
BIRTHDAYS
Your child’s birthday is an important time and a learning experience for everyone. We invite parents of primary students to
join us for circle time on this special day for approximately 20 minutes. For birthdays that fall on the weekend or if you are
unable to attend circle on the actual birthday, please contact your child’s teacher to arrange a different time or day.
Summer birthdays are usually celebrated in May and the child’s teacher will announce specific dates for these
celebrations.
For primary birthdays we will have an activity called “The Circle of the Sun”. We ask that parents bring in photographs of
your child - one for each year of his/her life. Please be ready to share interesting facts about your child including where
they were born, if a sibling arrived during that year, a special trip that was taken, or a special event or accomplishment.
12For example: “When Sara was three, we moved to Las Vegas. When Sara was four, her new baby sister arrived. Sara
thought she was too small” et cetera. Please try to keep the information brief for each year, one to three sentences each.
The child will carry the globe around the sun as the year’s events are conveyed for each year of his/her life. Students in 1st
through 8th grade celebrate birthdays in various ways depending on the grade level which will be discussed during parent
orientation at the beginning of each school year.
Often children will like to share a food on their birthday. An item to be shared for snack is welcome, but we ask that it be
nutritious. Examples include bagels, a special bread, a baked item like muffins, or a food that represents a cultural or
national origin of the child or someone he/she knows. Please check with the child’s teacher before sending any food items
to share. Food containing nuts of any kind should be avoided. Please no gifts, sweets, or goodie bags.
Some parents have asked if they can give some item of use to the school on the child’s birthday. Although you should not
feel you need to give anything, if you would like to share something, books are always welcome. The office has special
nameplates to place inside the book to acknowledge the giver and the occasion for the donation.
Difficulties and hurt feelings can occur when birthday invitations are passed out at school. Unless every child in the class
is being invited, please send birthday invitations by mail. Please do not ask the child's teacher to pass out invitations or
put them in the cubbies if all children are not invited.
PARENT / SCHOOL COMMUNICATION
Foothills Montessori School strives to be in partnership with parents in the education of their children. We will strive to
keep communication lines open between the parent and the school.
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Conferences are held in the fall and spring. It is essential that all parents, preferably both mother and father, attend
conferences.
Website/Blog/Facebook
You will receive consistent communication from FMS regarding information on upcoming school events, such as parent
nights, school festivals, holidays, and field trips; as well as, other relevant school information. Calendar and event
reminders are emailed to parents monthly from the office, in addition to being posted on Facebook and the FMS website.
Parents should subscribe to their child’s classroom blog to stay connected and current with information regarding the
classroom. The PTO also sends monthly communication via email to parents in the form of a newsletter called the PTO
Loop.
Parent Nights
Parent Nights will be held throughout the year. Issues such as discussing Montessori philosophy and parenting materials
are sometimes presented. This is an excellent chance to expand your knowledge of how your child learns and how you
can carry this philosophy into your home. Other times there is an Open House format followed with your child acting as a
guide to his/her classroom. Parents are expected to support school events and parent nights and to make every effort to
attend.
Library
FMS has a school library for the children’s use. The school maintains a reference library on Montessori Child
Development, and parenting issues. Interested parents may check out books for a 2 week period. The library has limited
resources so parents should take ultimate care of the books checked out to them and ensure their safe return. If books
are overdue for more than 30 days a $5.00 charge is assessed. Lost or damaged books must be replaced by the parent.
Parent Involvement
All parents enrolling their children in FMS agree to involve themselves in their children’s education by attending all
Parent/Teacher conferences and by attending Parent Education Night and school events. Parents are expected to
enforce all homework policies and ensure required assignments are completed and paperwork returned.
13Parent Volunteers
We strongly encourage every parent to volunteer at least 10 hours per semester in order to feel like a part of our school
community and be an active participant in your child’s educational experience. We will do our best to provide you with
creative and broad opportunities for involvement so that there will be “something for everyone.” Involvement does not
need to be extensive or time consuming in order to be meaningful to you and your child. Often just the sharing of an
experience, cultural information, travel experiences, or career expertise at circle time can enrich the children’s learning.
We also have a Parent/Teacher Organization (PTO) which helps build community, supports the teachers, and conducts
fundraising for the school. The PTO always encourages involvement and offers a wide variety of opportunities. Parents
volunteering in the classroom must attend training held at the beginning of the school year by a teacher and also obtain a
visitor’s badge while on campus (see “Visitors” section below).
Participation/volunteering in any FMS activities and the use of any recreational facilities involves a risk of accidental injury
despite all safety precautions. Volunteers assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities, and release from
responsibility and agree to indemnify and hold harmless FMS, its officers, independent contractors, and all employees for
any illness or injury occurred during voluntary participation in any activities, trips, or use of any recreational facilities
conducted by FMS.
Visitors
All adult visitors to the school, including parents of enrolled students, must come to the office and sign in unless at
designated pick-up and drop-off times. All visitors, including vendors and parent volunteers, will need to provide a valid
driver’s license to the office to be scanned and placed on an approved list. In addition, a visitor badge will be generated
and must always be worn while on campus each visit. Visitors not wearing a badge will be asked to go to the office to
sign in properly. Anyone not presenting a valid driver’s license will be denied access to the campus.
On occasion friends, relatives, and former students ask to visit the school during school hours. Although we strive to have
a warm and welcoming campus, this can be very distracting to the learning environment. All visits must receive prior
approval from the administration and will only be approved for the end of the school day, except under rare
circumstances. No drop-in visitors will be permitted.
Observation
Our doors are always open, and we encourage you to visit the school. We ask that each parent observe a classroom at
least once a year. Formal observations do not begin until after the first six weeks of school and are not scheduled the
week before a major holiday. You may call the office to schedule an observation time. Please check in at the office any
time you visit the school before proceeding to your child’s class. It is important that we are always aware of all adults on
campus. We will give you a visitor badge and observation guideline sheet upon checking in. This is for the safety of our
students and keeps the disruption of the work cycle to a minimum.
Field Trips
Your child will have the opportunity to go on field trips. The parents’ written parental permission slip, signed during
registration, is used for the entire year. Parents will be advised about trips involving transportation off premises usually
provided by chartered buses, but on rare occasion by parent owned vehicles. The notice will give complete details. Parent
owned vehicles must be covered by private liability insurance and parents must have a current driver’s license and proof
of insurance in their car or possession. Each driver will have a list of the children being transported in their car with the
names and phone numbers of parents and or guardians. The driver of the privately owned vehicle and all passengers
must wear seat belts or be in car seats if required by law. In addition, parent chaperones must sign up in advance of the
field trip with their child’s teacher as space is typically limited.
Each year, students are given a field trip t-shirt which must be worn during all off-campus outings for safety purposes. The
shirt may be from the current school year or previous years. FMS and Be Kind sweatshirts and t-shirts are also
acceptable, as long as the FMS logo is present on the shirt. Unfortunately, students will not be able to attend a field trip if
they are not wearing FMS apparel.
In the event you do not want your child to participate in any field trip or the student is not wearing appropriate FMS logo
wear, the school will make every effort to find classroom space. If no such space is available, it may be necessary to keep
your child home. There is no reduction of tuition for this absence. Children who arrive late for trips will remain in the office
or in another classroom until their class returns. No transportation will be provided to and from school.
14School Directory
We distribute a school directory in October of each school year. All parents/students who have agreed to be in the
directory will be listed unless an objection is on file. The directory is to be used for social or child related purposes in
relationship with FMS. The directory may not be used for solicitation of any kind.
Who To Ask?
We have listed areas of responsibility and specific individuals to address inquiries. Questions relating to your child’s
classroom, events, progress, or curriculum should be directed to your child’s teachers. All inquiries relating to operations
and policies/procedures of FMS and the PTO should be directed to the administrative team.
Foothills Montessori School
Primary - 8th grade Teaching & Admin Staff
First Name Last Name Room Administrative Educator Credentials #Years of Experience
Alisa Peck P3 Asst. Teacher, age 3 - K Montessori Certfification 24 years teaching experience
Amy Nhaisi E6 Teacher, grade 4th - 6th BA/Montessori Certification 9 years teaching experience
Angela Drew E3 Teacher, grade 1st - 3rd/Art grade K - 8th BA 20 years teaching experience
April Dane E4 Teacher, grade 1st - 3rd MA/Licensed by state of NV/Montessori Certification 31 years teaching experience
Ariel Bongard Office Administration/Student Services Coordinator MA/Licensed by state of NV 5 yrs. teaching/2 yr. administrative experience
Bob Ginther Office Physical Education Teacher, K - 8th BA 21 years teaching experience
Caitlin McCombs E1 Teacher, grade 7th - 8th BA 2 years teaching experience
Danna Karlavage E5 Teacher, grade 4th - 6th MA/Montessori Certification 20 years teaching experience
Diana Marquina P1 Asst.Teacher, grade K Montessori Certification 12 years teaching experience
Erica Sherlock E1 Teacher, grade 7th - 8th/Grade Level Head MA 20 yrs. teaching/5 yrs. administrative experience
Jeni Evensen E4 Teacher, grade 1st - 3rd MA/Montessori Certification 5 years teaching experience
Jessie Medina P2 Teacher, age 3 - K AA/Montessori Certification 20 years teaching experience
Joanne Tuazon P3 Teacher, age 3 - K BA/Montessori Certification 15 years teaching experience
Katie Weddell Office Administration Admin. Assistant 13 years administrative experience
Kim Gallagher Office Head of School Administration 17 yrs. administrative experience
Kim Kelley P4 Administration Operations Manager 1 year administrative experience
Krista Salvati E5/E6 Teacher, grade 4th - 6th BA 10 yrs. teaching experience
Lora Milne Office Administration Admin. Assistant 7 years administrative experience
Maria Pate E3 Teacher, grade 1st - 3rd MA/Montessori Certification 20 years teaching experience
Marian Rusche E2 Teacher, grade 1st - 3rd BA/Montessori Certification 9 yrs. Teaching experience
Maryam Khadivi P4 Teacher, grade K BS/Montessori Certification 26 years teaching experience
Melissa Martin E4 Teacher, grade 1st - 3rd BS/Montessori Certification 29 yrs. teaching experience
Melissa Eckes P1 Teacher, grade K/Grade Level Head MA/Montessori Certification 28 yrs. teaching/11 yrs. administrative experience
Rachel Scarpelli MPR Music Teacher, grade K - 8th BS/Montessori Certification 6 years teaching experience
Rebecca Jagusch E3 Teacher, grade 1st - 3rd BS/Licensed by state of Minnesota/Montessori Certification 18 years teaching experience
Ricardo Campo N/A Governing Board/Endeavor Schools President N/A
Rosie Bushbaum E2 Teacher, grade 1st - 3rd/Grade Level Head BS/Montessori Certification 33 yrs. teaching/7 yrs. administrative experience
Sadie Schmidel P2 Asst. Teacher, age 3 - K Montessori Certification 4 years teaching experience
Samia Freedman E1 Teacher, grade 7th - 8th MA 14 years teaching experience
Stephanie Osburn E5 Teacher, grade 4th - 6th MA 5 yrs. teaching experience
Yasnay Figueredo E3 Teacher, grade 1st - 3rd BA 26 years teaching experience
Social Networking
Students and parents using social network sites at any time and in any place are not to mention classmates, families,
teachers, staff or the administration of Foothills Montessori School in a negative manner or to talk in a derogatory way
about the school and/or its’ families. Sites include, but are not limited to, Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, Instagram,
Snapchat, Pinterest, etc. Please also refrain from being critical, judgmental, and infringing on others privacy. Doing so
may result in suspension or withdrawal from the school.
GENERAL ADMINISTRATION
Admission
Foothills Montessori School accepts children age 3 years through 14 years. We admit students of any race, color, national
or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally made available to all students at the school. We
do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration of our educational policies,
admission policies, and other school administered programs.
Tuition
Tuition is based on the entire academic year. No refunds will be given if a child is sick, or time is missed because of
15vacations. A financial agreement must be signed before your child is enrolled, accompanied by the non-refundable
deposit of $500.00. Tuition is due in three payments. A ten-payment plan is available, payable in monthly installments;
however, participation in the tuition insurance plan is mandatory. All payments are due on the first of the month. A late fee
of $25.00 will be assessed on any account that is not paid within ten days. A fee of $30.00 will be assessed on all
returned checks. Student accounts 30 days past due may result in the child being withdrawn from the school.
A Credit Card Authorization Form is provided in the registration packet. All parents must have a valid credit card
authorization on file. You have the option to make automatic payments via the card on file. Please note that we cannot
accept American Express, but do accept Visa, MasterCard, and Discover including a 3% convenience fee. You may also
opt to have tuition payments automatically deducted from the bank account of your choice by signing up for ACH for no
additional fee. Please note any account 10 days in arrears will automatically be charged to the credit card account
in addition to a $25.00 late fee. Parents electing to pay their tuition in full by August 1 st do not have to complete this
form.
Withdrawal from the school requires at least one month’s advance written notice. You must continue tuition payments for
the entire school year unless participating in the tuition insurance plan, which will cover a portion of the outstanding tuition.
There is no refund of any tuition for the school year and parents will be obligated for tuition for the balance of the
academic year.
Court Costs/Costs of Collection
If, after normal channels of collection are followed, we are forced to refer your account for collection, you will pay the cost
of collection, including but not limited to, attorney’s fees.
Admissions Process
Upon receipt of application, birth certificate, non-refundable application fee, and previous school records, parents will be
contacted to schedule an interview. The decision to accept the child for a particular program is made after interviews are
conducted. Upon acceptance, an acceptance letter and financial agreement will be provided. This agreement is to be
returned with the non-refundable enrollment deposit of $500.00. Prior to attending, a registration packet will be provided.
This includes enrollment forms, annual calendar, emergency contact information, health requirements, and other
information.
Student Files
Each student will need to have a completed file within the first week of school. This includes:
Application
Signed Financial Agreement and Enrollment Contract
Credit Card Authorization Form
Emergency Form
Copy of Immunizations with all shots being current or appropriate waivers
Copy of the Child’s Birth Certificate
Any previous school records
Field Trip Permission Slip
Pre-Admission Physical Exam Sheet
Permission to Release Information
Child Care Licensing Statement (primary students only)
Parent Handbook Receipt
Re-Enrollment Procedures
Re-enrollment takes place in February. Students already enrolled in the program are given the opportunity to re-enroll
before new students are admitted. Elementary students must submit an application for re-admission each year and
receive a letter of acceptance. Acceptance to the primary program does not guarantee acceptance into the elementary
program, including the Spanish Immersion program. Siblings of currently enrolled students are given second priority.
Open applications are accepted after re-enrollment is made available to currently enrolled families. Parents may request
a class, but final decisions are made by the Head of School with input from the child’s Head Teacher.
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